Elastic composite for a disposable absorbent garment

ABSTRACT

An elastic composite is provided in a disposable absorbent garment such as a diaper or training pants. The elastic composite has a base layer, a top layer, and an elastic construction disposed therebetween. The elastic construction includes a plurality of spaced apart (e.g. generally equally spaced apart) elastic elements (e.g. strands or threads) that are aligned in a generally cross machine direction and in generally parallel relation. Further, the top and base layers define a first longitudinally extending side edge and a second longitudinally extending side edge between which, the elastic construction is disposed. The elastic composite further includes an elasticized region, wherein the elastic construction is disposed, a first non-elasticized region disposed between the first side edge and the elasticized region, and a second non-elasticized region disposed between the second side edge and the elasticized region.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to disposable absorbent garmentsor articles such as baby diapers and training pants. More particularly,the present invention relates to an elastic component that can beemployed in one or more areas of the garment.

Disposable absorbent garments contemplated by the invention includedisposable diapers, disposable pull-on garments, and the like. Thesegarments are worn about the lower torso or waist of the user so as toreceive and contain urine and other bodily wastes. The benefits providedby the use of a disposable diaper on an infant are well known and itsuse has become widespread in the past several decades. Disposablepull-on garments include training pants, pull-on diapers, disposableunderwear, and adult incontinence garments. It is generally expectedthat the user of any one of these garments will be able to put on andtake off the garment on his/her own. As for training pants, thesegarments are used by young children to facilitate the child's transitionfrom using diapers to wearing regular underpants (i.e., during toilettraining). Training pants (and other disposable pull-on pants) haveclosed sides such that the user or caregiver raises the garment aboutthe user's legs to put it on and slips the garment downward about theuser's legs to take it off.

The principal elements of a typical disposable absorbent garment includea liquid permeable inner layer (or topsheet), a liquid impermeable outerlayer (or backsheet), and an absorbent core sandwiched between the innerand outer layers. Elastic members may be incorporated into differentparts of the garment. For example, elastic members may be positionedlongitudinally along a diaper, generally outboard of the absorbent coreto effect a seal around the buttocks, legs, or both of the users. Inaddition, several elastic members (e.g., in the form of elongatedelastic threads or strands) may be positioned laterally throughout thewaist regions (including the side waist regions) of a disposableabsorbent garment. The resulting elastication allows the garment tostretch when it is put on and then during wear. In this way, the garmentcan stretch to accommodate variations in waist size and leg size of theuser, while fitting snugly about the waist and legs.

When elastic members are incorporated into a part or area of thegarment, that part or area typically becomes a distinct, functionalcomponent of the garment. These elastic components include the sidepanels or ear portions, the waistband, and fastening tabs. The elasticcomponents to which the present invention is directed is generallyelongated, and may be a distinct portion of a larger, unitary piece, ora separate, attachable component. Furthermore, the elastic componenttypically contains one or more sections or layers in addition to theelastic members. In this regard, such an elastic component may bereferred to as an elastic composite.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is, therefore, one object of the invention to provide an improveddisposable absorbent garment, such as a diaper or adult incontinencegarment, and further, such a garment incorporating an improved elasticcomposite as one or more of its components.

For purposes of the present description, the term “elastic band” or“elastic composite” refers to a multi-layer construction of thedisposable absorbent garment. In this construction, a plurality ofelastic members, such as threads or strands, are disposed adjacent oneor more layers, e.g., backsheet and topsheet. In this way, the elasticmembers imparts elasticity to the adjacent layers and thus, to that partof the disposable absorbent garment. Such an elastic structure may be adistinct attachable component of the garment or may be a distinctportion or section of the garment body or a larger, unitary component ofthe garment body.

In one aspect of the invention, an elastic composite is provided in adisposable absorbent garment such as a diaper or training pants. Theelastic composite has a base layer, a top layer, and an elasticconstruction disposed therebetween. The elastic construction includes aplurality of spaced apart (e.g. preferably generally equally spacedapart) elastic elements (e.g. strands or threads) that are aligned ingenerally parallel relation. Further, the top and base layers define afirst side edge, a second side edge, and a longitudinal centerlinetherebetween. The elastic construction is disposed between the twolayers and extends in a direction that is between the side edges and isgenerally parallel with or corresponds to (i.e., overlays) thelongitudinal centerline. Further, the elastic elements are orientedalong a lateral direction that intersects the side edges andlongitudinal centerline (e.g., such that each elastic element isoriented or aligned along a direction that is generally perpendicular tothe side edges).

Preferably, the elastic composite includes at least one elasticizedregion, wherein the elastic construction is disposed, that is spacedinwardly from the side edges and, in some embodiments, positionedgenerally centrally between the side edges. Such an elastic compositealso includes a first non-elasticized region disposed between the firstside edge and the elasticized region, and a second non-elasticizedregion disposed between the second side edge and the elasticized region.

In certain embodiments, the first and second non-elasticized regionsprovide fastening regions that are generally flat relative to theelastic regions, and may be equipped with a fastening element such asadhesives or a hook or loop element. More preferably, the elasticelements are attached to at least one of the top and base layers suchthat the elasticized region is shirred when the elastic composite isdisposed in a relaxed, un-stretched state. In further embodiments, asecond elasticized region is provided between the side edges and a thirdelasticized region is provided between the first and second elasticizedregions.

In preferred embodiments, the elastic construction has a centerlineextending therethrough that is spaced generally equidistantly from eachside edge and the elastic strands are distributed along this centerlineand in generally perpendicular relation therewith. Preferably, thedirection of this centerline corresponds with a machine direction of theelastic composite band or more specifically, the web material from whichthe elastic composite band is cut.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a disposable absorbent garmentis provided with a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposedbetween the topsheet and the backsheet and such that a longitudinalcenterline of the garment extends through the topsheet, backsheet, andabsorbent core. Together, the topsheet, backsheet, and absorbent coreprovide a central body of the disposable absorbent garment. Theinventive garment further includes an elastic composite band that isattached to the central body. The elastic composite band has a firstside edge, a second side edge, and a composite centerline extending inbetween the side edges. The elastic composite band includes a baselayer, a top layer, and an elastic construction disposed between the topand base layers and spaced inwardly from each side edge. The elasticconstruction includes a plurality of spaced apart elastic elements thatare distributed in a direction extending between the side edges and eachaligned in generally perpendicular relation with the compositecenterline.

Preferably, the elastic composite band includes an elasticized regionthat is positioned generally centrally between the first and second sideedges, and wherein the elasticized region is disposed. The elasticcomposite also has a first non-elasticized region positioned between thefirst side edge and the elasticized region, and a second non-elasticizedregion positioned between the second side edge and the elasticizedregion. In some embodiments, the elastic composite band is attachedadjacent an end of the garment leg (e.g., along a waistline) andprovides therealong an elastic waistband on the garment. In furtherembodiments, the garment has two elastic composite bands each attachedalong a side margin of the garment. In these embodiments, the elasticcomposite band provides an elastic waist fastening portion of thediaper, such as an elastic side panel or ear portion of the garment orelastic fastening tab. In one particular embodiment, the elasticcomposite is provided as the central chassis or central body of thegarment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a disposable absorbent garment in the unfoldedconfiguration; according to the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a plan view of an elastic composite according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 2B is a plan view of the elastic composite of FIG. 2A shown in anextended, stretchable condition;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the elastic composite of FIG. 2A with acut-out detail to show an elastic construction;

FIG. 4 is a plan view of an alternative disposable absorbent garmentaccording to the invention;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of another alternative disposable absorbentgarment, according to the invention, incorporating an elastic compositeas a waistband;

FIG. 6 is a plan view of yet another alternative disposable absorbentgarment, according to the invention, further incorporating an elasticcomposite as a central body chassis; and

FIG. 7 is a plan view of an alternative elastic composite according tothe present invention; and

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of yet another alternative elasticcomposite according to the invention; and

FIGS. 9A-9C are plan view of a further alternative disposable absorbentgarments, according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Each of FIGS. 1 and 4-9 depict a disposable absorbent garment embodyingvarious aspects of the present invention. More particularly, each ofthese Figures depict such a garment that incorporates an elasticcomposite structure or elastic composite in accordance with the presentinvention. In FIG. 1, a disposable absorbent garment 110 is shown thatis suitable for the invention and in the form of a diaper having one ormore elastic composites incorporated therein. The elastic composite inFIGS. 1-8 have side and end edges and, thus, may be referred to hereinas elastic composite bands.

The disposable absorbent garment 110 in FIG. 1 is of a type that can beplaced against or in proximity to the body of a wearer so as to absorband to contain various bodily exudates. It should be noted, however,that the present invention is applicable to a variety of disposableabsorbent articles and garments, including training pants and a varietyof adult incontinence products. As will be described below, theinventive elastic composite or elastic composite band may provide a sidepanel or ear portion, a waistband, a fastening tab or band, or otherdistinct elastic component of the garment or article. The inventiveelastic composite may also be incorporated into an ear portion toelasticate the ear portion or to supplement the ear portion with anelasticated fastening tab. Accordingly, the present invention is notintended to be limited to the structures and the processes specificallydescribed and illustrated herein. For purposes of description, however,the following discussion will be directed to an exemplary disposablediaper only. Moreover, the invention will be described in the context ofits various configurations and aspects. It should be appreciated thatalternative arrangements of the inventive disposable absorbent garmentand such an elastic composite band may comprise various combinations,which include one or more of the various configurations and aspects ofthe invention.

FIG. 1 is introduced to illustrate some basic features of a disposablediaper 110, most of which are also applicable to other disposableabsorbent garments contemplated by the invention. The diaper 110includes three main regions aligned along an imaginary longitudinal axisor plane AA. These regions include a first waist region 112 (typicallyat the front of the user when the garment 110 is worn), a back waistregion 114, and a crotch region 116. The diaper 110 is alsocharacterized by a front edge 140, a back longitudinal edge 142, a firstlateral or side edge or side margin 144, and a second lateral or sideedge or side margin 146.

Along a lateral direction, the diaper 110 includes ear regions or earportions 118 extending laterally from the waist regions 112, 114.Together, the waist regions 112, 114 and crotch region 116 may bereferred to as forming a central body portion 120 of the garment 110that is positioned within side edges 144, 146. The body portion 120 mayalso be referred to as being formed by a liquid permeable inner layer ortopsheet 152, a liquid impermeable outer layer or backsheet (not shown),and an absorbent core 154 sandwiched between the two layers. The earportions 118 further include fastening tabs 124 for attaching the waistregions 112, 114 together. The diaper 110 also has an elastic waistband130 positioned generally along the back edge 142 to facilitate fasteningand to enhance the fit and seal of the diaper 110. When the hourglassshaped diaper 110 is worn, the crotch region 116 fits about the crotchof the wearer, and the front and back waist regions, 112 and 114, fitabout the corresponding waist areas. The ear portions 118, on the otherhand, wrap about the wearer and the fastening tabs 124 engage to form acomplete, all-around waistline of the diaper 110.

FIG. 2A depicts a typical elastic composite band 210 according to theinvention. More particularly, the elastic composite band 210 is oneparticularly suited for use as a side panel or fastening tab of adisposable absorbent garment (see, e.g., FIG. 1). FIG. 3 provides aperspective view and partial cut-out of the elastic composite band 210.The elastic composite band 210 may be characterized by an imaginarycenterline LL. In one aspect of the invention, the centerline LLpreferably corresponds with the machine direction of the elasticcomposite band 210 during manufacture. The elastic band 210 also hasside or longitudinally extending side edges 210 a and 210 b andlaterally extending end edges 210 c and 210 d. In FIG. 1, the elasticcomposite band 210 is shown in the stretched state as, for example, whena garment incorporating the elastic composite band 210 is worn. In thisstate, the elastic composite band 210 stretches, in the lateral orcross-machine direction (denoted by arrows XX).

As used herein, the term “machine” direction refers to the direction atwhich the component, or more particularly, the material web from whichthe elastic composite is derived (e.g., cut from) is driven in anassembly line during manufacturing. The term “cross-directional machinedirection” or “cross-directional,” on the other hand, refers to thedirection that is perpendicular to the machine direction. With referenceto the elastic composite 20 of FIG. 2, the cross machine direction isthe direction XX extending laterally or perpendicularly relative to thelongitudinal line LL.

The elastic composite band 210, according to the invention, has acentral region 214 in which an elastic construction is situated.Extending laterally from this central elastic or elasticized region 214are regions 216 and 218, which are substantially non-elasticized. Asshown in FIG. 2A, the regions 216, 218 occupy the expanse between thecentral elastic region 214 and the side edges 210 a, 210 b. Now withreference to FIG. 3, the elastic composite band 210 has a top layer 318and a bottom or base layer 320. The two layers 318, 320 preferablyextend the total width and length of the elastic composite band 210,thereby providing the side edges 210 a, 210 b, and the end edges 210 c,210 d. Both the base layer 320 and the top layer 318 are preferably anonwoven, breathable, disposable material such as propylene, non-wovenfabric, breathable polyethylene/polypropylene films, or non-porous films(or combinations of these materials). The base layer 320 and top layer318 adhere to one another, thereby sandwiching and securing a pluralityof elastic strands 322 therebetween.

The elastic strands 322 may be substituted, in alternative embodiments,by suitable elastic elements such as elastic strands, threads, ribbons,and elastic glue beads. In one aspect of the invention, the elasticelements or strands 322 are distributed along a direction that extendbetween the side edges 210 a, 210 b and parallel with (or correspondingto) center line LL. Further, each elastic element 322 is generallyaligned or oriented in a direction corresponding with the lateral orcross-machine direction, i.e., in a direction generally perpendicular tothe longitudinal center line LL and intersecting the side edges 210 a,210 b. Preferably, the strands 322 are disposed in generally parallelrelation and spaced apart generally equally along the longitudinaldirection. More preferably, the elastic strands 322 are of generallyequal length. Accordingly, when the elastic composite band 210 is worn,the strands 322 impart elasticity into the structure which allows theband 210 to stretch in the lateral or cross-machine direction XX.

The elastic strands 322 are preferably tensioned during securementbetween the top and base layers 318, 320. FIG. 2B illustrates theelastic composite band 210 in a laterally stretched condition. In thiscondition, the central elastic region 214 has a width that is almostequal to the non-elasticized zones 216 and 218. When returned to thenon-laterally stretched or relaxed condition, as shown in FIG. 2A, thecentral elastic region 214 contracts and crimps to a substantiallyreduced width. In this condition or state, the contracted elasticstrands 322 shirrs the elastic composite 210 and provide pleats 234 inthe contracted elastic region 214.

The elastic composite band 210 may originate from a web of material thatis wound onto spools or festooned. Typically, the user of such materialwill cut the material to a length required of a particular application.In some applications, one such web of material may provide the source ofmultiple components of the inventive disposable absorbent garment.

Returning to FIG. 1, the inventive disposable absorbent garment 110employs one or more elastic composite bands according to the invention,as described above. The disposable absorbent garment 110 employs in eachof the ear portions 118, a fastening tab 124 having the inventiveelastic composite construction. As the fastening tab 124, the elasticcomposite band is configured such that one non-elasticized region 124 ais attached to and overlaps the central body 120 of the garment 110while a second non-elasticized region 124 b is situated outboard of theside margins 144, 146. An elasticized region 124 c, as shown in FIG. 1,provides elasticity, and thus, stretch in the lateral or cross-machinedirection (of the elastic composite). In respect to the rest of thegarment 110, the elasticity or stretch provided by the central elasticregion 124 c directed along a direction that is generally perpendicularto the longitudinal center line AA of the garment 110, and correspondswith a direction that wraps about the waistline of the user.

The disposable absorbent garment 110 in FIG. 1 also provides an elasticcomposite, according to the invention, as the waistband 130. Thewaistband 130 is situated centrally in the waist region 114. Further,the elastic composite waistband 130 is disposed such thatnon-elasticized regions 130 a, 130 b are positioned outwardly of thelongitudinal line AA of the garment 110, while an elasticized region 130c is positioned centrally across the longitudinal center line AA.Moreover, the elasticized region 130 c is configured such that theelastic strands are aligned or oriented in a direction that is generallyperpendicular to the longitudinal center line AA. In this way, theelastic composite waistband 130 imparts elasticity about the waistregion 114 of the garment 110, and in a direction corresponding with thedirection of waistline about the user.

FIG. 4 depicts an alternative disposable absorbent garment 410 accordingto the invention. Specifically, FIG. 4 depicts a disposable absorbentgarment 410 employing elastic composites according to the invention asattachable ear portions or side panels 414. The elastic composite sidepanels 414 are separate components that are attached to a central body420 of the garment 410. The elastic composite side panels (or earportions) 414 are attached near one waist edge 442 of the garment 410and such that the centerline AA of the side panel 414 is generallyparallel with the longitudinal centerline AA of the garment 410.Moreover, each of the elastic composite side panels 414 has anon-elasticized region 414a that is positioned outboard of the sidemargins 446 of the garment 410 and a second non-elasticized region 414 bthat is attached inboard of the side margin 446 (or side margin 444).Thus, a central elastic region 414 c is situated outboard of the sidemargin 446 and not directly attached thereto. When the garment 410 is inuse, the central elasticized region 414 a allows the side panel tostretch in a lateral or cross-machine direction that corresponds withthe lateral direction relative to the longitudinal centerline AA of thegarment 410. Accordingly, when the garment 410 is worn, the elastic sidepanel 414 allows for stretching about the waistline of the user.

FIG. 5 depicts yet another alternative embodiment of a disposableabsorbent garment 510 according to the invention. The disposableabsorbent garment 510 is a diaper partially defined by end or waistedges 540, 542 (not shown) and side margins 544, 546. Further, theinventive disposable garment 510 has a central body 520 and a separate,attachable elastic waistband 530. Similar to the garments 110, 410 inFIGS. 1 and 4, respectively, the garment 510 employs an elasticcomposite, as the elastic waistband 530. The inventive elastic waistband530 is attached adjacent a waist edge 542 of the garment 510 and ispositioned centrally about the longitudinal centerline AA. The elasticcomposite waistband 530 is situated such that non-elasticized regions530 a, 530 c extend laterally past the side margins 544, 546,respectively. The central elasticized region 530 c is positionedcentrally within the central body 520 and side margins 544, 546. Theelastic strands of the central elastic region 530 c is further situatedsuch that the elastic region 530 c provides elasticity or stretch in alateral direction relative to longitudinal centerline AA. Again, in thisway, the elastic composite waistband 530 according to the inventionallows for the garment to fit snugly and effectively about the waistlineof the user.

FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative disposable absorbent garment 610,according to the invention (wherein like reference numerals are used toindicated like elements), in which the inventive elastic composite bandis incorporated into various areas or as various garment components. Thegarment 610 has a front waist region 112, a back waist region 114, and acrotch region 116 positioned therebetween. As with the garment 410 ofFIG. 4, an elasticized composite band 614 is attached to each sidemargin 144, 146, near end edge 140, as an elasticized side panel 614. Asecond pair of elastic composite bands is attached as an elasticizedside panel 660 along the opposite end edge 42 of the garment 610.

FIG. 6 also illustrates the use of the inventive elastic composite bandto provide an elasticized central body or chassis 680 at or beneath thecrotch region 116 of the garment 610 and in support of an absorbent core(not shown so as to clearly display the chassis 680). The absorbent coreis preferably adhered to and movable with the elasticized chassis 680.Thus, the core is preferably a conformable (changes shape in accordancewith an outside force), elastic, or extensible (e.g., pulled andpermanently stretched) body, as is generally known in the art. In thisway, the main or central body of the garment 610 is elasticized in alateral direction XX that is generally perpendicular to a longitudinalcenterline AA of the garment 610. In the garment 610 of FIG. 6, theinventive composite band provides the entire length of the central bodyor chassis 680. The elastic composite chassis 680 has an elasticizedregion 680 c situated between two non-elasticized regions 680 a, 680 b.Preferably, the elasticized region 680 c provides an elasticconstruction of a plurality of elastic strands as disclosed previouslyin respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 1-5. In the illustratedembodiment, the elasticized region 680 c extends between end edges 140,142, thereby imparting lateral elasticity (stretchability) across theentire garment length.

FIG. 7 depicts an alternative embodiment of an elastic composite bandaccording to the present invention. The elastic composite band 710illustrated therein differs from the previously described elasticcomposite band (see e.g. FIGS. 2 and 2 a) in that the elastic compositeband 710 includes two elasticized regions 714 a and 714 b. Theelasticized region 714 a, 714 b are preferably equidistantly spacedapart on either side of the longitudinal centerline AA. The spacing ofthe elasticized regions 714 a, 714 b creates right and leftnon-elasticized or dead regions 716, 718, as well as centralnon-elasticized region 750. The elasticized regions 714 a, 714 b impartselasticity to elastic composite band 710 a in the lateral directions XX,and in the central non-elasticized region 750, also in the oppositelateral direction VV.

FIG. 8 depicts yet another embodiment of an elastic composite band 810according to the invention. The inventive elastic composite band 810has, as in previously described embodiments, a central elastic orelasticized region 814 and regions 816 and 818 that are substantiallynonelasticized and extend laterally from the central elasticized region814. The elasticized region 814 is again comprised of a plurality ofelastic strands 322 that are disposed in generally parallel relation,and generally perpendicular with a longitudinal centerline LL of theelastic composite band 810 (and the elasticized region 814). The elasticcomposite band 810 also has end side edges 810 a, 810 b, and end edges810 c, 810 d.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the elastic composite band 810is further comprised of base layer 820 and top layer 824. As shown inFIG. 8, base and top layers 820, 824 sandwich the elastic strands 822therebetween. In contrast to previously described embodiments, layers820 and 824 are offset in respect to one another. Specifically, the twolayers 820, 824 are not positioned squarely or evenly one atop another,but overlap. In this way, the elastic composite band 810 is made wider.In particular, by offsetting the two layers 820, 824, the nonelasticizedregions 816, 818 are extended and may be referred to as having anoutside section (e.g., 818 a) formed by one of the layers 820, 824 andan inside section (e.g., 818 b) having both a top and a bottom layer820, 824. Preferably, the two layers 820, 824 are two plies of nonwovenmaterial. The wider nonelasticized, nonwoven regions 816, 818 provide aworking area on which fastening materials and other accessories orstructural attributes of the disposable absorbent garment may besituated. In various embodiments, the offset or overlap of the twolayers 820, 824 may be varied so as to create nonelasticized regions816, 818 of various widths. Moreover, a wider elastic composite band(and specifically, nonelasticized regions of the elastic composite band)is attained, without increasing the size of the nonwoven layers.

FIGS. 9A-9C are provided to illustrate further embodiments of thepresent invention. More specifically, FIGS. 9A-9C provide alternatedesigns, specifically alternate shapes, of the inventive elasticcomposite band. In these figures, like elements are referenced usinglike numerals.

Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, a disposable absorbent garment 910 isshown having a central body 920 and elastic composite bands in the formof ears or side panels 924. The ears 924 have inner and outernonelasticized regions 924 a, 924 b, and a central elasticized region924 c situated therebetween. These two figures illustrate an elasticcomposite band according to the invention having nonelasticized regions924 a and 924 b that are different from one another and do not provideside edges of the elastic composite band 924 which are in generallyparallel relation. In both designs, the side edge of the outernonelasticized regions 924 b are rounded or curved. The shape of theelastic composite bands 924 in these two figures provide, among otheradvantages, a more attractive product as perceived by the consumer.

Now turning to FIG. 9 c, yet another variation of the elastic compositeband 924 is shown applied to a training pants 910. Specifically, theinventive elastic composite band 924 has nonelasticized regions 924 aand 924 b of different geometries. This design of the elastic compositebands 924 provide an aesthetic as well as a functional advantage. Thefunctional advantage comes in the form of an improved fit around thewearer's leg, particularly due to the shape of the elastic compositeband 924.

The foregoing description of the present invention has been presentedfor purposes of illustration and description. It is to be noted that thedescription is not intended to limit the invention to the variousapparatus and processes disclosed herein. Various aspects of theinvention as described above, may be applicable to other types ofdisposable absorbent articles and garments, and processes for making thesame. For example, the elastic composite described above, may beincorporated in other disposable absorbent garments such as trainingpants, etc. or in other areas or as other components of the garment.Such variations of the invention will become apparent to one skilled inthe relevant consumer products art provided with the present disclosure.Consequently, variations and modifications commensurate with the aboveteachings, and the skill and knowledge of the relevant art, are withinthe scope of the present invention. The embodiments described andillustrated herein are further intended to explain the best modes forpracticing the invention, and to enable others skilled in the art toutilize the invention and other embodiments and with variousmodifications required by the particular applications or uses of thepresent invention.

1. In a disposable absorbent garment, an elastic composite comprising: abase layer; a top layer; and an elastic construction disposedtherebetween, said elastic construction including a plurality of spacedapart elastic elements aligned in generally parallel relation; whereinsaid top and base layers define a first side edge and a second side edgeand a longitudinal centerline extending between said side edges, saidelastic construction being disposed between said top and base layers andextending between said side edges in a direction generally parallel withor corresponding to said longitudinal centerline; and wherein each saidelastic element is oriented along a direction intersecting saidlongitudinal centerline and said side edges.
 2. The elastic composite ofclaim of 1, wherein said elastic composite includes an elasticizedregion spaced inwardly from said side edges, said elastic constructionbeing disposed in said elasticized region, a first non-elasticizedregion disposed between said first side edge and said elasticizedregion, and a second non-elasticized region disposed between said secondside edge and said elasticized region.
 3. The elastic composite of claim2, wherein said elastic elements are elastic strands.
 4. The elasticcomposite of claim 2, wherein said first and second non-elasticizedregions provide fastening regions that are generally flat relative tosaid elastic region.
 5. The elastic composite of claim 4, wherein atleast one of said first and second non-elasticized regions is equippedwith a fastening element.
 6. The elastic composite of claim 5, whereinsaid fastening element is selected from the group of fastening elementsconsisting of: adhesive elements and hook and landing elements.
 7. Theelastic composite of claim 2, wherein said elastic elements are attachedto at least one of said top and base layers such that said elasticizedregion is shirred when said elastic composite is disposed in a relaxed,un-stretched state.
 8. The elastic composite of claim 2, furthercomprising: a second elasticized region disposed between said sideedges, said second elasticized region including a second elasticconstruction having a plurality of spaced apart elastic elements; and athird non-elasticized region disposed between said first and secondelasticized regions.
 9. The elastic composite of claim 1, wherein saidplurality of elastic elements are generally equally spaced apart fromone another.
 10. The elastic composite of claim 1, wherein said elasticelements are spaced inwardly from said side edges and aligned ingenerally perpendicular relation with a longitudinal centerline of saidelastic composite.
 11. The elastic composite of claim 1, wherein saidside edges are elongated and extend longitudinally in generally parallelrelation with a longitudinal centerline of said elastic composite, saidelastic elements being aligned in generally parallel relation with across machine direction of said composite.
 12. The elastic composite ofclaim 1, wherein said elastic construction is positioned generallycentrally between said side edges.
 13. A disposable absorbent garmentcomprising: a topsheet; a backsheet; an absorbent core disposed betweensaid topsheet and said backsheet such that a longitudinal centerline ofsaid garment extends through said topsheet, said backsheet, and saidabsorbent core, wherein said topsheet, said backsheet and said absorbentcore provide a central body of said disposable absorbent garment; and anelastic composite band attached to said central body, said elasticcomposite band having a first side edge, a second side edge, and acomposite centerline extending in a direction between, and in generallyparallel relation with, said side edges, said elastic composite bandincluding a base layer, a top layer, and an elastic constructiondisposed between said top and base layers and spaced inwardly from eachsaid side edge; and wherein said elastic construction includes aplurality of spaced apart elastic elements distributed in a directionextending between said side edges, each said elastic element beingaligned in generally perpendicular relation with said compositecenterline.
 14. The disposable absorbent garment of claim 13, whereinsaid elastic composite band includes an elasticized region positionedbetween said first and second side edges, said elastic constructionbeing disposed in said elasticized region, a first non-elasticizedregion positioned between said first side edge and said elasticizedregion, and a second non-elasticized region positioned between saidsecond side edge and said elasticized region.
 15. The disposableabsorbent garment of claim 14, wherein said elasticized region isdisposed generally centrally between said side edges.
 16. The disposableabsorbent garment of claim 14, further comprising: a second elasticizedregion positioned between said first and second side edges, said secondelasticized region including a second elastic construction having aplurality of spaced apart elastic elements.
 17. The disposable absorbentgarment of claim 14, wherein said elastic elements are elastic strands.18. The disposable absorbent garment of claim 14, wherein each of saidplurality of elastic strands is generally aligned in perpendicularrelation with said side edges.
 19. The disposable absorbent garment ofclaim 14, wherein said elastic elements are disposed in mutual generallyparallel relation.
 20. The disposable absorbent garment of claim 13,wherein said composite centerline corresponds with a machine directionof said elastic composite band.
 21. The disposable absorbent garment ofclaim 13, wherein said elastic elements are adhered to at least one ofsaid top and base layers such that said elastic region is shirred whensaid elastic composite band is disposed in a relaxed, un-stretchedstate, and wherein said first and second non-elasticized regions providefastening regions that are generally flat relative to said elasticizedregion.
 22. The disposable absorbent garment of claim 21, wherein one ofsaid first and second elasticized regions is equipped with a fasteningelement selected from the group of fastening elements consisting of:adhesive elements and hook and landing elements.
 23. The disposableabsorbent garment of claim 13, wherein said topsheet and backsheetdefine a front end edge and a back end edge through which saidlongitudinal centerline extends, and a pair of side margins disposed onopposite sides of said core and extending between said front and backend edges, said disposable absorbent garment further comprising: asecond elastic composite band that is substantially identical to saidfirst elastic composite band, wherein each of said first and secondelastic composite bands is attached in the proximity of one of said endedges of said garment and one of said side margins and extends laterallyoutward relative to said longitudinal center line to provide a fasteningtab thereabout.
 24. The disposable absorbent garment of claim 13,wherein said topsheet and backsheet define a front end edge and a backend edge through which said longitudinal centerline extends, and a pairof generally longitudinally extending side margins disposed on oppositesides of said core and extending between said front and back end edges,and wherein said elastic composite band is positioned adjacent one ofsaid end edges of said disposable absorbent garment to provide anelastic waistband therealong.
 25. The disposable absorbent garment ofclaim 24, further comprising a second elastic composite bank that issubstantially identical to said first elastic composite band, saidsecond elastic composite band being positioned adjacent said other endedge of said disposable absorbent garment to provide a second elasticwaistband therealong.
 26. The disposable absorbent garment of claim 13,further comprising: a second elastic composite band substantiallyidentical to said first elastic composite band; and a pair of earportions for fastening said disposable absorbent garment about the waistof a user, wherein said ear portions extending in opposite lateraldirections with respect to said longitudinal center line, each saidelastic composite band being incorporated into one of said ear portions.27. The disposable absorbent garment of claim 26, wherein each saidelastic composite band is attached near one of said side margins toprovide a complete ear portion.
 28. A disposable absorbent garment,comprising: a topsheet; a backsheet; an absorbent core disposed betweensaid topsheet and said backsheet, wherein a longitudinal center lineextends through said topsheet, backsheet, and absorbent core, andwherein said topsheet and said backsheet define a front end edge and aback end edge through which said longitudinal centerline extends and apair of side margins disposed on opposite sides of said core andextending between said end edges; and a pair of waist fastening portionsdisposed on opposite sides of said longitudinal centerline and inproximity with one of said side margins, each said waist fasteningportion having a first side edge, a second side edge, and a fasteningportion centerline extending between said side edges that correspondswith a machine direction of said fastening portion, each said fasteningportion including a base layer, a top layer, and an elastic constructiondisposed between said top and base layers and spaced inwardly from eachsaid side edge, said elastic construction including a plurality ofspaced apart elastic elements distributed in a direction between saidside edges and in generally perpendicular relation with said fasteningportion centerline wherein each fastening portion further includes, anelasticized region positioned between said first and second side edges,said elastic construction being disposed in said elasticized region, afirst non-elasticized region positioned between said first side edge andsaid elasticized region, and a second non-elasticized region positionedbetween said second side edge and said elasticized region.
 29. Thedisposable absorbent garment of claim 28, wherein said elasticizedregion is positioned generally centrally between said first and secondside edges such that said fastening position centerline extendstherethrough.
 30. The disposable absorbent garment of claim 28, whereinsaid plurality of elastic elements are generally equally spaced apartfrom one another.
 31. The disposable absorbent garment of claim 28,wherein said plurality of elastic elements are elastic strands disposedin mutual generally parallel relation.
 32. The disposable absorbentgarment of claim 28, wherein said elastic elements are adhered to atleast one of said top and base layers such that said elasticized regionis shirred when said elastic composite band is disposed in a relaxed,un-stretched state, and wherein said first and second non-elasticizedregions provide fastening regions that are generally flat relative tosaid elasticized region.
 33. The disposable absorbent garment of claim32, wherein, for each fastening waist portion, said first and secondside edges are elongated and one of said first and side edges isattached to said central body along one of said side margins to providea side panel therealong.
 34. In a disposable absorbent garment, anelastic composite band attached to a central body of the garment, saidelastic composite band comprising: a base layer; a top layer; and anelastic construction disposed therebetween, said elastic constructionincluding a plurality of spaced apart elastic strands disposed in mutualgenerally parallel relation; wherein said top and base layers define afirst side edge, a second side edge, and a centerline extendingtherebetween; wherein said elastic construction is spaced inwardly fromsaid side edges to define an elasticized region positioned generallycentrally between said first and second side edges, a firstnon-elasticized region positioned between said first side edge and saidelasticized region, and a second non-elasticized region positionedbetween said second side edge and said elasticized region; wherein saidelastic construction has a centerline extending therethrough that isspaced generally equidistantly from each said side edge, said elasticstrands being distributed along said centerline and in generallyperpendicular relation therewith.
 34. The elastic composite band ofclaim 34, wherein a direction of said centerline corresponds with amachine direction of said elastic composite band.
 35. The elasticcomposite band of claim 35, wherein said plurality of elastic strandsare generally equally spaced apart from one another.
 36. The elasticcomposite band of claim 34, wherein said elastic elements are adhered tosaid top and base layers such that said elasticized region is shirredwhen said elastic composite band is disposed in a relaxed, un-stretchedstate, and wherein said first and second non-elasticized regions providefastening regions that are generally flat relative to said elasticizedregion.
 38. The elastic composite band of claim 34, wherein said top andbase layers are positioned relative to one another such that said toplayer defines said first side edge and said base layer defines saidsecond side edge, said first side edge being a side edge of said toplayer and said second side edge being a side edge of said base layer.39. The elastic composite band of claim 34, wherein said top and baselayers have corresponding side edges that are offset from one anothersuch that said first side edge of said elastic composite band is definedby a side edge of said top layer and said second side edge of saidelastic composite band is defined by a side edge of said base layer. 40.A disposable absorbent garment comprising: a topsheet; a backsheet; anabsorbent core disposed between said topsheet and said backsheet suchthat a longitudinal centerline of said garment extends through saidtopsheet, said backsheet, and said absorbent core, wherein saidtopsheet, said backsheet and said absorbent core provide a central bodyof said disposable absorbent garment; and said central body including anelastic composite band located generally centrally thereon andsupporting said absorbent core, said elastic composite band having afirst side edge, a second side edge, and a composite centerlineextending longitudinally in a direction between said side edges, saidelastic composite band including a base layer, a top layer, and anelastic construction disposed between said top and base layers andspaced inwardly from each said side edge; and wherein said elasticconstruction includes a plurality of spaced apart elastic elementsdistributed in a direction extending between said side edges, each saidelastic element being aligned in generally perpendicular relation withsaid composite centerline.
 41. The disposable absorbent garment of claim40, wherein said elastic composite band includes an elasticized regionpositioned between said first and second side edges, said elasticconstruction being disposed in said elasticized region, a firstnon-elasticized region positioned between said first side edge and saidelasticized region, and a second non-elasticized region positionedbetween said second side edge and said elasticized region.
 42. Thedisposable absorbent garment of claim 41, wherein said absorbent cone isadhered to said elastic composite band and movable therewith.
 43. Thedisposable absorbent garment of claim 42, wherein said absorbent cone isan elasticized body.
 44. In a disposable absorbent garment, an elasticcomposite band attached to a central body of the garment, said elasticcomposite band comprising: a base layer; a top layer; and an elasticconstruction disposed therebetween, said elastic construction includinga plurality of spaced apart elastic strands; wherein said top and baselayers are offset such that said top layer has a side edge that define afirst side edge of said elastic composite band and said base layer has aside edge that defines a second side edge of said elastic compositeband; wherein said elastic construction is spaced inwardly from saidside edges to define an elasticized region positioned between said firstand second side edges, a first non-elasticized region positioned betweensaid first side edge and said elasticized region, and a secondnon-elasticized region positioned between said second side edge and saidelasticized region; wherein said elastic construction has a longitudinalcenterline extending therethrough, said elastic strands being generallydistributed along said centerline.
 45. The elastic composite band ofclaim 44, wherein a direction of said longitudinal centerline is amachine direction of said elastic composite band.
 46. The elasticcomposite band of claim 44, wherein each said elasticized region has anoutside section formed by one of said top and base layers and an insidesection formed by both top and base layers, said outside sectionincluding one of said first and second side edges.
 47. The elasticcomposite band of claim 46, wherein said plurality of strands aredisposed in mutual generally parallel relation.
 48. The elasticcomposite band of claim 47, wherein said elastic construction is spacedequidistantly from said first and second side edges and each saidelastic strand is positioned generally perpendicular to saidlongitudinal centerline.